28 Oct, 2009
Get Away From It All: Haunted Hike Highlights Halloween in Ramona, Ca
Posted by: Beach Reporter In: beaches| california| events
By Boo McDew
Tired of trick-or-treating?
Don’t want to pass out candy to the little munchkins?
Want to get away from the hustle and bustle of bumper-to-bumper urban holiday life?
Like to get you and your kids some exercise, fresh air & fun?
Why not head for the spooky forest Halloween night and take a walk on the Haunted Trail at Dos Picos County Park, 46 miles northeast of San Diego?
For less than the cost of a candy bar (the event and parking are FREE), you can take your kids on a walk through trees, over bridges and around a lake, not knowing just when a scary character might jump out and say, “BOO!”
Most kids 5 to 18 love the experience. “My grandkids call it the ‘haunted forest’ and look forward to it,” said Ralph Parsons of San Clemente. ”It’s not gory or freaky frightening and my 8-year-old is thrilled at the adventure.”
“Prepare to be spooked by native wildlife with a few surprises in-between,” said Ranger Kyle Iske. “It’s a moderate walk with a few hills and slightly uneven surfaces. Young hikers are advised to bring an adult, a flashlight and an imagination.”
The park is located at 17953 Dos Picos Park Road, Ramona, Ca. (Thomas Brothers Map 1171-H5; 760-789-2220.) From Highway 67, go south on Mussey Grade Road one mile to Dos Picos Park Road. Follow it one mile to the park entrance. Park in the Day Use Lot and look for the Ranger, where the bright lights are (neear restroom facilities). Hikes will take place at 7:30 and 8pm.
